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An exploratory analysis on Kayamandi as a sustainability conundrum : identifying the missing links towards a more sustainable future

Petzer, Kyle John (2015-04)

Thesis (MPhil)--Stellenbosch University, 2015.

Thesis

ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Informal settlements in South Africa are home to a large proportion of the country’s
population and many of these people live in atrocious conditions which infringe on their basic
human rights. It is imperative that the problems synonymous with informal settlements be
addressed. Kayamandi is situated on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, a town with abundant
financial and human capital and resources. In relation to other informal settlements
throughout South Africa, Kayamandi is relatively small. Thus, the progression towards
sustainability and development would be deemed to be an easier prospect here than in many
other urban areas in South Africa. Evidently, this has not been the case.
This thesis identifies the shortcomings in the way that various proponents of development,
such as the private and public sectors as well as non-profit organisations, approach
development and sustainability in Kayamandi. The research was conducted through an
extensive literature review, case study analysis and qualitative research methods. The aim
was to: Identify what the main social, environmental and economic issues are in Kayamandi;
To analyse policy, plans and programs and to assess whether these have been practically
achieved in relation to the stipulated objectives, and; To assess some of the sustainable
development initiatives and programs that have been implemented in Kayamandi with the
aim of identifying why sustainable development has as yet not been achieved.
An extensive literature review sheds light on the nature of poverty and informal settlements,
while explaining concepts surrounding sustainable development, good governance and how
sustainability as a paradigm holds the key to addressing issues synonymous with informal
settlements. It also focuses on how sustainable development can unlock the potential of
deprived and informal communities. Subsequent chapters give insight on what is prescribed
in national policy, plans and programs; what the current situation in Kayamandi is with
regards to environmental and socioeconomic issues, as well service delivery, housing and
infrastructure delivery; and how the proponents of development have approached
development in Kayamandi.
From the research conducted it was found that: There is a lack of good governance; Policy
implementation is poor; Developmental initiatives tend to be linear and reactive; There is a
lack of innovation; There is poor communication between stakeholder and developmental
proponents, which is further exacerbated by tedious bureaucratic procedures, and; There is no
clear and comprehensive sustainability framework or plan in place. However, the research indicates that this can be resolved via several mechanisms and through the implementation of
several strategies: By building and developing public and community leadership as well as
recognising the importance of knowledge in fostering sustainable development; Improving
communication and developing appropriate communication networks and feedback loops
between stakeholders and proponents of development; Implementing unbiased, proactive and
innovative initiatives which address the triple bottom line of sustainability and; By making
use of suitable assessments and indicators alongside an appropriate, inclusive and holistic
sustainability plan or framework.